Rhetorical Analysis on Kennedy Steel Speech Essay Example

the persuasiveness by making it stand out in a sophisticated, knowledgeable way. Kennedy’s choice in words such as “rescinded” and “defiance” help the argument sound refined. Instead of using simple words, Kennedy chose to incorporate strong, powerful words which stir up emotion. The word “defiance” can easily relate to most if not all members of the audience. The audience can associate this term with a time in the past when they were defiant towards something they did not support, bringing an emotional connection to the speech. Kennedy also uses phrases like “handicap our efforts” and “ruthless disregard” to make his speech unique.

The level of vocabulary and the wording of phrases establishes a witty sense to the speech which is an effective method to persuade. The phrases also contain urgency persuading the listeners to take action. Kennedy does not just say disregard but “ruthless disregard”. The connotation of the word ruthless is harsh and cruel. This persuades the audience to act quickly before the situation becomes worse.

Kennedy incorporates many rhetorical modes in his speech. Cause and effect is a mode that is frequently used in the work. In paragraphs three and four Kennedy utilizes this mode to show what the effect of the rising prices will have on all of America. He says it will “increase the cost of homes, autos, appliances…” and it will be “more difficult to withstand competition.” This mode makes the argument more relatable to the general public because they have a visual of how they will be affected by the rising prices of steel.

Kennedy shows that unless the audience does something to stop the increase, that it will impact everyone negatively.

Kennedy also uses exemplification to establish a stronger argument. For instance he says “steel output per man is rising so fast that labor costs per ton of steel can be expected to decline in the next twelve months.” Examples such as these prove to the audience that this topic has been thoroughly thought about and that there are cases to back up Kennedy’s position. It is an extremely persuasive mode because it brings real life scenarios into the argument. The audience can see that Kennedy has established an argument worth supporting.

John F. Kennedy does many things to assist in persuading the audience. His use of logos, diction, and rhetorical modes helps make the argument stronger.